EARTHQUAKE-RESISTING HOMES.

Taranaki Daily News, 12 June 1931, Page 6

EARTHQUAKE-RESISTING HOMES.

The report of tlv6 New Zealand Building Regulation Committee, though primarily one for experts to deal with, is likely to create general interest. It recommends more control by the State and by local authorities of building plan? in order that a higher standard of construction may be demanded, particularly in areiis known to be subject to earthquake. Speaking broadly, the trend of the new legislation proposed appears to be towards the elimination of the '‘jerry builder” and the amateur architect. Tile committee emphasises the value of simplicity of design, integrity of workmanship and efficient skilled supervision. The most cheering announcement it makes is that these as well as better material may be obtainable without increasing tho cost of buildings. The need for recognising that New Zealand is a country subject to earthquake shock is stressed, and engineers and architects will, it is stated, have to pay more attention to earthquake-resistant construction and co-operate with the geologist and seismologist in the application of scientific principles. These recommendations are, naturally, matters that will take some time to bring into working order. In the meantime emergency preparations in case of earthquake arc recommended, with an immediate examination of all fire-fighting services, water supply, drainage and gas. There Is everything to be said in favour of these precautions. They need not entail heavy expenditure by local authorities, though preparedness is never a' waste of effort or of money. The preparation of full information could be undertaken by municipal officials without delay, and local governing bodies would then Ik able to judge if further action were necessary. The disasters of the past two years have given plain indications that to leave things to chance is to court calamity.